This year, more than ever, I took into account the ‘atmosphere’ as a determining factor for the success of a show.
It’s all because of the amount of car culture I’ve experienced in 2024. And since it shows no signs of slowing down, I’ve become very aware of the concept of ‘too much of a good thing’ creeps into my mind when I accept programs as true.
Take the quality of the cars this year for example. From Players Classic to Ultrace and even Ultimate Dubs, it feels like there has been a real leap in build standards.
Plus, I’m constantly writing about the huge variety of cars, which reinforces the idea that the scene is still as open-minded as ever.
For the spectators I think it’s fantastic. But, and of course there’s a but, from a reporter’s perspective it can be overwhelming.
Believe me, I would rather be spoiled for choice than have nothing good to write about. However, it can be hard to revisit every show with a fresh perspective when the basic ingredients are all so good these days.
It takes real character to make a show stand out, but once they get that down, it becomes a lot more fun. I’ve found that’s why I like Rollhard so much and why it’s a serious contender for my favorite car show.
Take the location, which in theory is nothing special; Bicester Heritage is one of hundreds of former Royal Air Force bases across the UK. But in 2013, RAF Bicester was transformed into a hub for historic motorsport and the preservation of automotive history.
As if that wasn’t cool enough, the character it adds to Rollhard is on a whole other level. The show cars are parked around some beautiful 1920s architecture in the Technical Site; the abandoned, patinated hangars add a rustic yet industrial charm to the venue.
And that’s before I even mention the vintage cars, trucks and machines that are scattered around the grounds. Combined with the show and stance cars, it’s a welcome change and the only chance many enthusiasts get to experience metal like this.
From a photographic point of view Bicester Heritage is a joy to photograph. Cars are parked on grass, on tarmac, in open spaces and sometimes in front of interesting features and buildings. Variety is not only the spice of life; it is the key to keeping a photo set fresh.
Let’s stay on trend with ‘variety’ here. More and more shows are attracting cars from all walks of car culture, but Rollhard is one of the best at putting together a collection.
There aren’t many shows where you’ll find a Pro Street Chevrolet Camaro parked across from a fantastic Alpine GTA Convertible, Land Rover Series, and Defender combination, and a Mercedes-Benz SE dumped on its ass.
For JDM enthusiasts, this Nissan ensemble drew crowds all day long…
…while BMW fans were spoiled with a wide selection of beautiful examples spread across the Technical Site.
Last year, the Rollhard hangar display was all red, but this year, white cars were lined up in stacked rows. The only breaks in the color scheme were the dealers who lined both sides of the building, displaying their own selections.
Year after year Rollhard invites the British lowrider scene to show their cars in a special section. Although there is only a small group of lowrider enthusiasts on our rainy island, Lay’N’Play will often go to shows together – something I was talking about at Players Classic 2024.
It was great to see Lay’N’Play, especially when they parade around the venue, on three wheels and jumping to the delight of the crowd. My personal favourite? This bed-dancing Datsun mini truck. I wish we had more of these in the UK, as out of place as they are.
The appeal of Rollhard for me can be summed up in one term: positive vibes. But that feels like a lame excuse, so let me explain…
Rollhard has a serious grassroots vibe in the best possible way, doesn’t take itself too seriously or shout too loudly that it’s the ‘biggest’ or ‘best’ car show in the country. Yet the execution, location, quality, music and food make it one of the best regarded car shows in Europe.
It is important to remember that Rollhard is run by a small group of friends and enthusiasts only. There are no major sponsors, no brand affiliations and as such no responsibility other than to put on a great show for people to enjoy.
I’ll be speaking to grandmaster Dan Allard soon to find out more about how Rollhard works behind the scenes and how the band has managed to establish a permanent place in the British scene over the years.
Until then, consider Rollhard a gift from the British car scene to itself. Fun and friendly, it’s a great way to experience the culture.
Mario Christou
Instagram: mcwpn, mariochristou.world
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